Deep tile and grout cleaning restores the look and cleanliness of hard-surface flooring, especially in kitchens where grease and foot traffic cause buildup over time.
This project took place in a residential South Austin kitchen, a busy space that showed signs of wear. The before-and-after photo proves the transformation and shows what a professional clean can achieve.
About the Project
Where It Took Place
The job was completed in a single-family home in South Austin. The kitchen featured light-colored ceramic tile installed when the home was built in the early 2000s. The floor saw moderate daily use and had never been professionally cleaned.
Client Goals
- Restore the grout lines without replacing tile
- Remove greasy buildup and embedded food stains
- Brighten and refresh the space
Before: Grimy Tile and Dingy Grout
The floor had visible darkening in the grout lines, especially near the stove and sink.
A thin oily layer covered some of the tiles, giving them a dull, sticky texture. Bits of dried food and general staining were also present.
This is common in older kitchens due to:
- Years of moisture and humidity
- Lack of grout sealing
- Accumulated grease from daily cooking
- Infrequent deep cleaning
Our Deep Cleaning Process
We followed a five-step professional cleaning method to restore the floor safely and thoroughly.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Inspection & Prep | We identified the tile type, evaluated grout condition, and cleared the area for access. |
| 2. Pre-Treatment | Applied a high-pH degreaser to dissolve oils, food, and surface grime. |
| 3. Mechanical Scrubbing | Used commercial tile brushes to agitate and lift dirt deep within the grout lines. |
| 4. Hot Water Extraction | Steam-cleaned using high pressure and heat to extract debris and moisture. |
| 5. Optional Grout Sealing | We offered an acrylic sealant to protect grout from future stains and absorption. |
After: Bright, Clean, and Restored
After cleaning, the grout returned to its original light color. The tile surface felt clean and smooth, with no remaining film.
The whole kitchen appeared brighter. The flooring looked updated, without any need for replacement. No more sticky residue or lingering odors remained.
Why Professional Cleaning Works Better Than DIY
Store-bought products and mops can’t reach deep into porous grout.
Only commercial equipment can deliver the high heat and pressure needed to remove bacteria, grease, and residue.
Professionals also use tile-safe, non-toxic chemicals that outperform DIY formulas without damaging the surface.
Bonus: Better Hygiene and Indoor Air Quality
Removing bacteria buildup cuts down on lingering kitchen smells.
Clean grout reduces mold and allergen risk, improving overall indoor air quality. That matters for families with kids or pets who spend time close to the floor.
Why We Recommend Grout Sealing
Sealing grout helps it stay clean longer. It blocks moisture and stains from seeping in and makes daily mopping more effective.
We always offer this as a final step for long-term results.
Serving Austin Since 2009
Absolute Carpet & Tile has served South Austin and surrounding cities since 2009. We’re trusted by homeowners in Bee Cave, Buda, Kyle, and beyond.
We’re fully insured, family-owned, and accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
Call for a free estimate today. We offer same-day confirmation, no contracts, and expert service every time.
